In Memoriam - 2020's

Trooper II Marcellus E. Bethea

Marcellus E. Bethea was born on March 6, 1991, in Edison, NJ. Trooper II Bethea was a resident of Florence, NJ, and grew up in Columbus, NJ. He participated in the New Jersey State Police Trooper Youth Week program and graduated from Northern Burlington Regional High School in 2009. In 2013, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Law and Justice from Rowan University.

Trooper II Bethea enlisted in the New Jersey State Police on January 29, 2016, as a member of the 156th Class. He served in Troop "A" at the Bridgeton Station, Buena Vista Station, Bellmar Station, and the Atlantic City Expressway Station. He was later assigned to the Executive Protection Unit, where he was a member of Governor Phil Murphy’s protection detail.

Before his passing, Trooper II Bethea was stationed at Troop "D" Moorestown Station. Throughout his career, he exemplified courage, integrity, and selflessness, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues and the community he served.

On May 5, 2024, Trooper II Bethea passed away while training for the New Jersey State Police T.E.A.M.S. Unit at the New Jersey State Police Headquarters swimming pool in Ewing, Mercer County.

Trooper II Bethea served 8 years and 4 months with the New Jersey State Police.

Trooper II Bethea is survived by his wife, daughter, parents, and brother.